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tci General Surgery Coding Alert - 2009 Issue 5
Reader Questions:Differentiate Ileostomy From Feeding Tube
Question: What is the difference between a tube and non-tube ileostomy? When can we charge for an ileostomy? The doctor did a laparoscopic colectomy and states, "I decided on a diverting ileostomy to protect the anastomosis." Is this the time to add the ileostomy? Connecticut Subscriber Answer: You should avoid using the term "tube ileostomy" all together. An ileostomy is when a loop of ileum is brought up to skin level and opened to divert the fecal stream. Alternatively, a surgeon may insert a feeding tube into the jejunum, or more rarely the ileum, for post-op feeding. While...
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